Diana and Actaeon
Oil on canvas
Roman School
17th Century
Canvas cm. 74 x 101
Frame cm. 89 x 101
Excellent condition
Diana and Actaeon is a classic subject in ancient painting, which enjoyed widespread popularity between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries.
The theme derives from Greek and Roman mythology and refers to an episode from Ovid's "Metamorphoses."
This famous myth tells that the hunter Actaeon unknowingly stumbles upon Diana, the goddess of the hunt and the moon, known for her chastity.
The Goddess is taking a nude bath in a spring along with her nymphs, who are also nude. The scene is attractive and intrigues the unfortunate Actaeon, who approaches and is discovered. Having realized the hunter's presence, the nymphs scream and try to cover the goddess, who turns angrily towards him and, to prevent him from recounting the event, splashes water on his head, turning him into a deer.
Not recognizing him, Actaeon's hunting dogs begin to chase him, and he flees to a spring where he notices his metamorphosis. Finally, his hounds catch up with him and tear him apart.
The myth of Diana and Actaeon should be interpreted as a punishment for the violation of privacy and sacredness. Diana, a symbol of purity and virginity, represents the inviolability of nature and the protection of women, while Actaeon embodies human curiosity and greed with the tragic consequences derived from exceeding the limits of what is allowed.
The painting is very interesting and depicts the episode with a wide view that allows one to grasp the group of bathers in the woods on the right side of the canvas,
in the central part Actaeon begins to flee, wet by Diana, while in the plain of the landscape the hunter is already transformed into a deer and is chased by his dogs.
The shaded area under a majestic tree highlights the naked bodies of the nymphs and the Goddess, and contrasts with the wide luminous landscape that opens on the opposite side.
The work was executed by an artist of the Roman school and should be placed in the second part of the 17th century.
It is in excellent condition, perfectly relined and complete with a beautiful antique gilded frame.
We issue a stamped and signed certificate of authenticity that guarantees the period, provenance and all the characteristics of the work, prepared by an Antique dealer affiliated with FIMA (ITALIAN FEDERATION OF ART MERCHANTS).
Delivery in Italy and throughout Europe within 3 days of receiving the bank transfer.
The shipment is tracked and insured and travels with careful shockproof packaging inside a custom-made wooden crate.
Negotiable price and personalized payment.
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